| ||
|
Perhaps because their numbers are so few in Central Park, it didn't take long for the two wood ducks, (meeting for the first time yesterday) to strike up a seemingly hot and heavy romance.
.
Last night, I did not see Miss. Willow in her usual spot seeking treat. In fact, I did not see her at all on a quick trip around the Reservoir. It seems she and her new beau (who I shall call, "Woodie" -- yes, very creative) went off on some romantic jaunt.
.
But, both were back at the Reservoir this morning, swimming and hanging out together, like a long bonded couple.
.
Love apparently blooms quickly in the wood duck world.
.
But, I am happy for Miss Willow (who may not really be a "miss" anymore). It wasn't easy getting through this tough winter as a lone wood duck amongst so many bigger, quicker and very hungry mallards and geese. Not only did Willow have to contend with bitter cold, ice, snow and nearly non-existent food supplies, but also being the odd (and tiny) duck out. She literally had to battle for everything.
.
Fortunately, the mallards were too intent on just surviving to waste energy picking on or bullying Willow. Still, it must have been a very lonely winter for the little wood duck who though not harassed by mallards, was not befriended by any of them either.
.
As for Woodie, he is not really "new" to the Reservoir. He is probably the same male wood duck who has spent the last two springs and summers at the Reservoir. (There was never a woodie girl for him to take up with before.)
.
I don't obviously know where Woodie spent the winter, but it must have been quite the pleasant surprise to arrive back at the Reservoir yesterday to find a pretty lady in waiting!
.
As noted, Woodie did not waste a minute on formalities, flirting or puffing out his chest.
.
He didn't need to.
.
He had Willow at the first quack.
And yes, it must be true, that loves comes eventually to all who wait. -- PCA
************
No comments:
Post a Comment